GOING GREEN - 4

GOING GREEN
What are REALTORS Doing about Sustainability?

By Steve Wright

Lightner said when going Green, it’s best to speak in plain English.

“We’re doing Realtor roundtable discussions around the country and most Realtors are somewhat aware of the issue of Green or energy efficiency and they are interested in it, but they don’t know what to do next,” she said. “We asked `how many of your clients are interested in energy efficiency?’ and no hands go up. Then we ask `how many are concerned about utility bills?’ and the hands go up -- the light bulb goes off.”

Instead of talking about sustainability and hard science, Lightner suggests Realtors talk to consumers about making homes more comfortable, cost effective, durable, healthy and safer.

”Green sounds too far out there,” she said. “Energy efficient is more interesting, more something you can touch.”

TOMORROW: Car sharing

Wright frequently writes about smart growth and sustainable communities. He and his wife live in a restored historic home in the heart of Miami’s Little Havana. Contact him at: stevewright64@yahoo.com